The possibility of a global conflict is a nightmare scenario no one wants to contemplate. However, as an exercise in geopolitical and survivalist forecasting, it's intriguing to analyze which nations would offer the best chances of survival in the event of a worldwide collapse. The key criteria for this ranking are: geographical isolation, political and social stability, food and energy self-sufficiency, low population density, and a lack of strategic military targets.
Here is our top 10 list of potential refuges in the event of a third world war.
10. Portugal
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Why:Political stability and relative isolation in Europe.
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Strengths:As one of Europe's most peaceful countries, Portugal is situated on the western periphery of the continent, far from potential major flashpoints like Eastern Europe. Its climate supports viable agriculture, and it has a long coastline for fishing.
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Weaknesses:Its membership in NATO could draw it into a conflict, and it hosts strategic military bases.
9. Switzerland
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Why:A legendary tradition of neutrality and a culture of preparedness.
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Strengths:Swiss neutrality is deeply ingrained. The mountainous terrain is easily defensible, and the country boasts one of the highest densities of nuclear bunkers per capita in the world. Its decentralized political system is a key asset.
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Weaknesses:Surrounded by major NATO and EU powers, it could become caught in conventional European fighting.
8. Slovenia
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Why:A discreet, small nation rich in nature and water.
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Strengths:With a low population density, vast forested and mountainous areas (the Julian Alps), and abundant freshwater resources, Slovenia offers a stable and relatively self-sufficient haven.
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Weaknesses:Membership in NATO and the EU increases its potential risk of involvement.
7. Bhutan
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Why:Himalayan isolation and a philosophy of self-reliance.
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Strengths:Nestled in the Himalayas, its access is naturally difficult. The country has a very low population density and a culture deeply rooted in environmental respect and autonomy. It has no diplomatic relations with major nuclear powers.
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Weaknesses:Geographic proximity to potential giants in conflict, India and China. Limited resources could be a challenge.
6. Iceland
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Why:Extreme island isolation and geothermal energy independence.
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Strengths:Located in the middle of the North Atlantic, it is remote from everything. It produces its own food (fish) and is almost entirely self-sufficient in energy thanks to geothermal power. A small, homogeneous population aids social cohesion.
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Weaknesses:Its strategic position in the North Atlantic could make it relevant to naval powers. The harsh climate limits agriculture.
5. Ireland
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Why:Historical neutrality and island isolation.
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Strengths:Ireland is not a member of any military alliance (like NATO) and has a strong tradition of neutrality. It is an island with significant agricultural land, allowing for potential food self-sufficiency. Its distance from the European mainland is a buffer.
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Weaknesses:Relative proximity to the UK, a potential high-value target.
4. Canada (Rural and Northern Regions)
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Why:Immense territory and vast resources.
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Strengths:Canada has one of the lowest population densities on Earth. Its vast wilderness areas, particularly in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, are extremely isolated. The country is rich in freshwater, natural resources, and wildlife.
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Weaknesses:Direct neighbor to the United States, the number one target in any large-scale attack. Major cities would be high-risk zones.
3. Australia / New Zealand
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Why:Isolated continental fortresses.
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Strengths:Their primary asset is their extreme geographical isolation. They are continent-islands with strong food, mineral, and energy self-sufficiency. New Zealand, in particular, is often cited as the ultimate billionaire bunker destination due to its stability and remoteness.
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Weaknesses:Australia is a close ally of the US (ANZUS Pact) and could be a secondary target. Both face risks from wildfires and droughts.
2. Argentina (Patagonia)
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Why:Remoteness, low population density, and abundant resources.
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Strengths:Argentina, and especially its Patagonia region, is far from likely geopolitical epicenters. It is a self-sufficient food and energy producer. The vast, uninhabited spaces in the south offer an ideal refuge.
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Weaknesses:A history of some economic and political instability, though this may matter less in a global crisis.
1. Finland
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Why:The ultimate survivalist culture.
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Strengths:Finland stands apart due to its unique level of national preparedness. Universal male conscription means a large portion of the population has military survival training. The country has thousands of public shelters and a culture of "sisu" (resilience and grit). Its vast forests and tens of thousands of lakes provide shelter, food, and water. Despite recent NATO membership, its immense territory and low density make it the most prepared and resilient nation on this list.
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